What is Thai Massage?
Thai Massage is an ancient massage modality with its origins in Thailand and India. Influenced by Traditional Thai Medicine, Buddhist philosophy, and Ayurvedic Medicine, Thai Massage is a very effective full body massage modality. It is performed on a comfortable mat on the floor. The client is fully clothed in loose clothing. A Thai massage can consist of acupressure, tapotement, compression, range of motion, and stretching. Thai massage can also include abdominal work. I have studied Thai abdominal massage as well as Chi Nei Tsang (Taoist abdominal massage). When working, the practitioner may place the client’s body in various positions including supine, prone, side-lying, and seated in a cross-legged position. The practitioner works with hands, elbows, forearms, knees, and feet. I may use traditional wooden tools (Tok Sen) used in Thailand and Burma as well as stone tools for increased pressure and fascial work. Thai Massage has many similar characteristics to Yoga, but the client is passive during the treatment, allowing the practitioner to move his/her body freely.
Who is Thai massage for?
Thai Massage has a reputation for being intense and challenging. It sure can be! But the level of pressure and stretch is adjustable and should never be more intense than that which is desired by the receiver. It is a massage for all body types, ages and fitness levels. It is especially great for athletes and Yogis who enjoy a deep stretch. It is also a fantastic treatment for those who may be more sedentary during the day. Breaking out of one’s old movement patterns is vital for a healthy, flexible body. Thai massage does this in a supportive and safe way. It is a great way to reacquaint yourself with your body and learn something new about yourself.
What to expect during your treatment
Thai massage is performed with the client wearing loose clothing that is not revealing and is appropriate for stretching the body. Please avoid lotion so that your skin isn’t slippery. My hygiene is important to me and I expect my clients to feel the same way about their own. Do not eat before receiving Thai Massage. This can be uncomfortable.
An informed massage is a better massage.
I always tell my clients, “An informed massage is a better massage.” I have a short intake form for you to complete and please be prepared to share any health information that is pertinent to the appointment. This can include medications, recent surgeries, old or new injuries, joint limitation, artificial joints, and chronic or acute illnesses. Stay home if you are contagious. If you are unsure if Thai massage is appropriate for you, contact your physician first. I am happy to speak with them as well and explain the service.
Sometimes it isn’t just the physical stuff that I need to know. If you feel you need to share your emotional state or any history of psychological related matters, please feel free to do so. I am qualified to and only work on the physical, musculoskeletal level, but all the above things can impact your service. I will not pry. Thank you.